BRPD beefs up security for Independence Day festivities

BATON ROUGE - Hundreds of officers filled downtown Friday in preparation for Fourth of July festivities.

Police warned the public to be extra cautious and aware of their surroundings.

"There have been incidents in the past," said Baton Rouge Police Sergeant Donald Gurzinski. "I think they were isolated incidents. We're doing everything we can to prevent and to create an atmosphere that would behoove them not to do that."

A shooting seven years ago on the levee left police and attendees on high alert.

To ensure the safety of the public this year, Baton Rouge Police stepped up security. They had officers patrolling by car, horse, motorcycle and even by air.

They also had help from the sheriff's office and had state police on call in case anything were to happen.

Police say with the additional security, families shouldn't worry.

"The families should feel safe," said Sergeant Gurzinski. "Especially right here on River Road in front of the River Center by the Kidd and the whole downtown area. We'll have more than ample security, there's crime cameras that are set up and you shouldn't be able to go too far without seeing a police officer."